Highlighting Chatham County Schools achievements in academics, arts & athletics

June 8th, 2025

By Gene Galin

Presentation from CCS Public Information Officer - Jessica Pasion

Pittsboro, NC – From graduation ceremonies to arts performances and athletic triumphs, Chatham County Schools‘ Public Information Officer, Jessica Pasion, detailed a series of initiatives and events that showcased the dedication of educators, the creativity of young authors, and the success of various programs designed to inspire and empower students. Ms. Pasion did her presentation at June’s Breakfast Club event at 79 Degrees West in Pittsboro.

Filmed by Gene Galin

School Lunch Hero Day and Nurses Day

In May, Chatham County Schools celebrated School Lunch Hero Day, recognizing the vital role cafeteria staff play in ensuring students receive nutritious meals. Pasion emphasized the importance of these unsung heroes, noting that all cafeterias in the district achieved a 100% rating.

Additionally, May 7 was School Nurses Day, a moment to honor the nurses who help maintain students’ health and well-being throughout the school year. As the academic calendar winds down, these celebrations serve as a reminder of the essential services that support student learning.

Honoring Beginning Teachers

Chatham County Schools also took time to celebrate its beginning teachers during an event at the central office. Pasion noted that the district values the contributions of new educators, referring to them as “BTS” (Beginning Teachers). This year, the district recognized their efforts with a special ceremony, where one standout teacher was awarded the title of Beginning Teacher of the Year. “We really like to elevate and lift up our beginning teachers,” Pasion explained, acknowledging the challenges they face in their first years of teaching.

Young Authors Ceremony

One of the district’s longstanding traditions is the Young Authors Ceremony, which has been held for over 30 years. This event celebrates the creative talents of students from first to eighth grade who have published their own books. Pasion shared her enthusiasm for the program, recalling a favorite story about “pizza on a moon.”

Dual Language Program

Chatham County Schools is proud to celebrate the graduation of 42 seniors from its dual language program at Jordan Matthews High School. This program aims to equip students with bilingual skills, enhancing their marketability in the workforce. Additionally, Seaforth High School celebrated its inaugural cohort of dual language graduates, marking a significant milestone for the district’s commitment to language education.

AVID Program and College Commitment Day

Chatham County Schools is committed to preparing students for their futures, and the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program plays a crucial role in this effort. Middle school students in the AVID program recently participated in college tours, gaining exposure to various post-secondary education options.

College Commitment Day was another significant event, where students from Central High School proudly announced their plans for further education. Every participating student successfully secured a placement in either a four-year college or community college, a testament to the hard work and dedication of both students and staff.

Photo from Chatham Magazine

Performances and Initiatives

The arts are alive and well in Chatham County Schools, as evidenced by a series of performances and initiatives celebrated throughout May. Pasion shared the news about students from Chatham Grove Elementary performing the national anthem at a Durham Bulls game, as well as the recent band concert at Bennett School, marking a significant milestone for the K-12 institution.

In an effort to foster collaboration among smaller music programs, the district launched the West Chatham Concert Band, which includes students from multiple schools. The band recently achieved a Superior rating, showcasing the talent and hard work of its members.

Theatrical performances also took center stage, with North Chatham Elementary presenting “Finding Nemo” and Margaret B. Pollard Middle School staging “The Wizard of Oz.”

Exceptional Children’s Art Festival

The Exceptional Children’s Art Festival provided a platform for students with special needs to express their creativity and talent. This annual event promotes inclusivity and celebrates the unique abilities of all students, offering them a safe space to shine.

Track and Field Success

In the realm of athletics, Chatham County Schools celebrated the achievements of Seaforth High School’s men’s track and field team, which recently secured a state title for outdoor track and field. This victory followed their success in winning an indoor state championship.

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